Root Sports, the regional sports network serving multiple markets, has a complicated relationship with streaming services like YouTube TV. Let me break down what you need to know about accessing Root Sports content in 2025.
Root Sports Current Availability on YouTube TV
Unfortunately, Root Sports is not currently available on YouTube TV. This can be frustrating for sports fans who want to catch their favorite local teams, especially in regions where Root Sports holds exclusive broadcasting rights for major professional sports teams.
Why Isn’t Root Sports on YouTube TV?
The absence comes down to complex distribution agreements and pricing negotiations between regional sports networks (RSNs) and streaming platforms. Root Sports, which operates under the AT&T SportsNet umbrella in some markets, typically demands higher carriage fees than many streaming services are willing to pay.
Alternative Ways to Watch Root Sports
If you’re looking to watch Root Sports content, you currently have several options:
– Traditional cable or satellite providers
– DIRECTV STREAM (formerly AT&T TV)
– Fubo TV (in select markets)
What Teams Are Affected?
This impacts fans trying to watch:
– Seattle Mariners baseball
– Portland Trail Blazers basketball
– Seattle Kraken hockey
– Pittsburgh Pirates baseball
– Various college sports in these regions
Future Outlook
The streaming landscape is constantly evolving, and there’s always potential for new agreements. While YouTube TV continues to expand its sports offerings, adding channels like NFL Network and MLB Network, regional sports networks remain a challenging piece of the puzzle.
What Can Viewers Do?
If Root Sports access is crucial for you, I’d recommend:
1. Contacting YouTube TV support to express interest
2. Following both Root Sports and YouTube TV on social media for updates
3. Considering a temporary switch to DIRECTV STREAM during your team’s season
4. Exploring combination packages with your internet provider
Remember, streaming rights and channel availability can change quickly. While Root Sports isn’t currently on YouTube TV’s lineup, the streaming landscape of 2025 continues to evolve. Keep checking back for updates, and don’t be afraid to explore multiple services to create your ideal sports viewing setup.
The Bottom Line
For now, if you’re committed to watching Root Sports content, you’ll need to look beyond YouTube TV. While this might mean juggling multiple services or making some tough choices about your streaming budget, understanding your options helps make an informed decision about how to best access the sports content you care about most.
